AB1209 THE RHEUMA-BUS-TOUR: TWO WEEK OPEN-ACCESS SCREENING FOR EARLY RHEUMATIC DISEASES

2019

Background Early diagnosis is crucial for patients with rheumatic diseases. Studies show that early stage patients already show reduced mental and physical health [2, 3]. However, early diagnosis is often delayed due to the severe lack of rheumatologists in Germany. Objectives The cross-sectional study compares data on physical and mental health of known and suspected early rheumatic patients, collected from participants of the bus tour. Methods The Rheuma-Bus-Tour is an annual, two week open-access screening event in three states (Rhineland-Palatine, Saarland, Lower Saxony) that raises awareness for rheumatic diseases and identifies people with potential early cases of RA, SpA and PsA. All…